Lexington’s parks and recreation levy on the November ballot: What voters need to know

LEXINGTON — Lexington voters will decide whether to renew a property tax levy that keeps the village’s parks and recreation programs running — and officials say losing it could force the community to put several planned projects on hold.

The 1-mill, five-year levy would begin in 2027, with the first payment due in 2028. Mayor Bob Jarvis said the levy covers roughly about 25 percent of Lexington’s parks and recreation budget.

“Twenty-five percent is a big chunk to lose,” Jarvis said.

If voters renew the levy, the village expects to collect about $87,600 annually based on a 92 percent collection rate recommended by Richland County Auditor John Jerger. The full 1-mill levy would generate $95,315 if the village collected 100% of it.

“However, he [Jerger] says you never collect all of it,” Jarvis said. “He recommended using 92 percent and he’s in that position for a reason. He knows what he is talking about.”

For homeowners, the levy would cost approximately $22.20 per $100,000 of property value, Jarvis said.

Village eyes several park projects

The village plans to use the levy to help cover equipment expenses and several upcoming projects, including a pavilion at the new green space on the square.

Jarvis said they also need to begin setting aside money for playground equipment in need of replacement.

“The one that’s coming to end of life, the quickest would be the playground equipment down at Bicentennial Park,” Jarvis said.

“Of course, just looking to keep up the high standard there. We have the parks for people to enjoy.”

The village also plans to add pickleball courts at the former tennis courts near the Clear Fork Swim Club. Jarvis said they now own the land, which includes the area where the skateboarding equipment once stood.

Losing levy could mean fewer projects

Without the levy, officials would need to rework the parks and recreation budget, Jarvis said.

“We would not be able to do everything that we’re looking to do as far as, you know, putting money away for the playground equipment, which we really need to start doing.”

“You can get to half a million dollars without even blinking on that,” Jarvis said.

The village could struggle to fund larger capital projects like the pavilion and pickleball courts, along with the playground equipment.

The levy supports more than the village’s parks, Jarvis said. He pointed to the children who use the facilities for baseball, softball and soccer as well as seniors who use the Senior Center Depot.

“We just, you know, we were asking the village voters to please continue to support the parks,” Jarvis said. “It’s going for all great stuff, and we enjoy seeing all the facilities being used.”